Everyone’s life is full of many activities to do such as working, studying, eating, playing, cooking, watching T.V and other various activities. So that, there are some people who are trying to sleep as little as possible to be able to achieve their other activities. There are many things which could seem to be more interesting than getting a few more hours of sleep, but just as exercise and nutrition are so essential for optimal health and happiness, so is sleep. The quality of your waking life, your mental sharpness, productivity, emotional balance, creativity, physical vitality, and even your weight; all of these are affected by the quality of your sleep. There is not any other activity that gives so many benefits with so little effort.
Sleep deprivation has a wide range of negative effects, as the lack of sleep could affect your judgment, coordination, and reaction times. In other words, sleep deprivation can affect you just as much as being drunk.
The effects and harms of sleep deprivation and chronic lack of sleep:
1. Concentration and memory problems.
2. Difficulty making decisions.
3. Inability to cope with stress.
4. Moodiness and irritability.
5. Weight gain.
6. Increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems.
7. Fatigue, lethargy, and lack of motivation.
8. Reduced creativity and problem-solving skills
9. Reduced immunity; frequent colds and infections
Learn how to know that you are sleep deprived:
1. If you get sleepy in meetings, lectures, or warm rooms.
2. When you feel that you are in need to take a nap to get through the day.
3. When you fall asleep within five minutes of going to bed.
4. Getting drowsy when driving or after heavy meals.
5. When you fall asleep while watching TV or relaxing in the evening.
6. Having a hard time to get out of the bed in the morning.
7. If you need an alarm clock in order to wake up on time or if you are relying on the snooze button.